Tips for choosing a health club or gym

Not all men are created equally, and so it would seem not all health and gyms. Ebonyonline has sweated and pounded the streets of London to bring you another set of tips to consumer tips.

The Health and Fitness sector is a multi-billion pound industry. Before you part with your hard earned cash and choosing the glossiest, hyped up Docklands gym and paying a monthly fortune, ask yourself some of the questions below.

Choosing a fitness club is a big investment and like all things no two clubs are the same so it’s important you do your homework before spending your hard earned money. Use the directory to find a list of clubs in your area. Below are some points to consider and questions to ask when you have found some clubs of your choice.

POINTS TO CONSIDER

Do you want it located close to work or home?

If you plan to drive are there parking facilities?

Make a list of must-have and desirable facilities and services. Eg swimming pool, aerobic classes, dance classes, sauna, childcare, massage etc

Ask for a day pass or trial period so that you can get a ‘feel’ of the club and its facilities, members and ambience before signing the contract.

Check the quality and quantity of equipment and how waiting time per equipment.

Do the staff seem approachable, friendly and knowledgeable.

Are there sufficient staff around to help answer your questions and help with your programme?

Is the atmosphere welcoming or intimidating, this can affect your level of motivation to continue.

Read the contract carefully, some clubs may require long notice periods for cancellations with heavy penalties!

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER ASKING

What is the membership fee and what does it include. Eg classes, childcare, sauna?

How does the contract work, will you have to sign up for a full year, or can you pay monthly?

What are the cancellation periods and penalties?

Do they have a trial period that you can cancel within without incurring additional charges?

Do they issue day passes or have a trial ‘make your mind up period’ before you join as a full member?

What are the types of memberships and what are the benefits and disadvantages?

Do they have women only classes, days etc?

Can they personalise a fitness or dietary programme for you?

There will be many more questions that will apply to your specific situation; the checklist above should serve as a guide to finding and purchasing the right fitness package for you.

We are always interested in readers good and bad stories about health clubs and gyms. So send in your stories to info@ebonyonline.net You might even win a prize for your efforts